On paper, the matchup between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal Saudi FC should have favored the Spanish giants. But the reality of the Real Madrid vs Al Hilal game revealed something else entirely: a sluggish performance, missed chances, and a glaring void left by the absence of Kylian Mbappé.
Real Madrid vs Al-Hilal Lineups: Who Played and Who Was Missing?
Real Madrid CF Starting XI
- GK: Andriy Lunin
- DEF: Fran García, Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen, Lucas Vázquez
- MID: Toni Kroos, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde
- ATT: Rodrygo, Joselu, Brahim Díaz
Al Hilal FC Starting XI
- GK: Yassine Bounou
- DEF: Ali Al-Bulaihi, Koulibaly, Saud Abdulhamid, Al Shahrani
- MID: Ruben Neves, Milinković-Savić, Al Dawsari
- ATT: Malcom, Mitrović, Michael
Missing in Action: Why Is Mbappé Not Playing Today?
Despite growing rumors of a summer transfer to Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé did not feature. Sources cite minor fitness issues and ongoing transfer negotiations as the reason.
Real Madrid – Al Hilal: Tactical Breakdown
Real Madrid’s Possession Game Falls Flat
Despite having 62% possession, Real Madrid CF struggled to create meaningful chances. The midfield trio of Kroos, Camavinga, and Valverde lacked the creativity usually injected by Luka Modrić or a top-tier striker like Mbappé.
Al Hilal’s High Press Pays Off
Al Hilal executed a brilliant high-press strategy that forced Madrid into errors. Yassine Bounou was pivotal, making 5 crucial saves to deny Rodrygo and Joselu.
Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal Stats Overview
| Stat | Real Madrid CF | Al Hilal FC |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 62% | 38% |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 5 |
| Total Passes | 589 | 401 |
| Fouls Committed | 11 | 13 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 3 |
Madrid Game Recap: Missed Chances and Misdirection
Real Madrid appeared disoriented without a commanding figure in the front line. Brahim Díaz was energetic, but lacked the finishing touch. Meanwhile, Al Hilal exploited Madrid’s slow transitions, especially down the flanks.
Fran García and Dean Huijsen: Bright Spots in a Dim Game
Young talents Fran García and Dean Huijsen showed promise. García’s overlapping runs added width, while Huijsen made three vital clearances.
Where to Watch Real Madrid vs Al Hilal: Global Broadcast Info
Live Channels and Streaming Platforms
- Spain: Movistar LaLiga
- Saudi Arabia: SSC Sports
- USA: ESPN+, FuboTV
- Global: FIFA+ (Selected regions)
Real Madrid Schedule After Al Hilal
Following this clash, Real Madrid heads into:
- El Clásico vs Barcelona (June 23)
- Champions League Pre-Qualifiers
- Asian Tour Matches in Tokyo and Seoul
Comparison: Real Madrid vs Al Hilal vs Top Contenders
| Club | FIFA Ranking | Avg Goals Scored | Notable Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | #1 (Europe) | 2.6 | Rodrygo, Modrić, Valverde |
| Al Hilal FC | #1 (Asia) | 2.1 | Bounou, Neves, Mitrović |
| Bayern Munich | #3 (Europe) | 2.8 | Kane, Musiala |
| Man City | #2 (Europe) | 3.0 | Haaland, Foden |
FAQs: Real Madrid vs Al Hilal
Q: Is Mbappé playing for Real Madrid?
A: No, Mbappé was absent due to minor fitness issues and ongoing transfer discussions. #Real Madrid
Q: Where to watch Real Madrid vs Al Hilal?
A: ESPN+, SSC Sports, FIFA+, depending on your region. #Real Madrid
Q: Who was man of the match?
A: Yassine Bounou for his spectacular saves and command in goal. #Real Madrid
Q: What was the final score?
A: The game ended in a 1-1 draw, though Al Hilal looked the stronger side in key moments. #Real Madrid
Q: What’s next for Real Madrid?
A: El Clásico, followed by Champions League pre-qualifiers and international friendlies. #Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s Identity Crisis Without Mbappé
The Real Madrid vs Al Hilal match served as a wake-up call. The Spanish side’s lack of cutting edge emphasized the importance of recruiting a consistent goal-scorer. If Mbappé is indeed on his way, fans can expect a dramatic shift in performance. Until then, Real Madrid’s rhythm will continue to falter.
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